25-02-2025
Joplin breaks ground on 95-acre 'DORA' bike park
JOPLIN, Mo. — Cycling enthusiasts from across the Four States came to Joplin Monday (2/24) to show their support for a new, safer biking option.
The City of Joplin broke ground on the Dover Outdoor Recreation Area, also known as 'DORA.'
The 95-acre bike park located near Dover Hill Elementary will offer a variety of trails, ramps, and tracks for cyclists of all skill levels.
Other park features include a shelter, restrooms, lighting, security cameras, and a landscaping layout with public art.
DORA was on the Parks and Stormwater Sales Tax project list that voters renewed in 2021. An ARPA grant helped seal the deal, paying for part of the $5.8 million project.
Cyclists say it's a much-needed addition to the Joplin area, and will offer a safer place to ride.
'This resource is going to be wonderful. To be able to truly enjoy what's out here without the fear of being hit by a car,' said Mark Cox, owner of Blue's Bike and Outdoor Company.
'Riding on the road now-a-days is not really safe, so riding on the trails and parks, this is the way to go,' said Aaron Shaw, a cycling enthusiast from Liberal, MO.
Construction is already underway, as crews begin cutting out bike trails. The Dover Outdoor Recreation Area is expected to open in late 2025 or early 2026.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
